2011 media releases

Introduction

View DOC media releases from 2011

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    Rare bats discovered in the Kepler Mountains

    Date: 23 December 2011
    A colony of rare native bats has been discovered beside the Kepler Track Great Walk, Fiordland, thanks to a project supported by Distinction Hotel and the Fiordland Conservation Trust.

    Cathedral Cove arch reopens

    Date: 22 December 2011
    Completion of remedial works at Cathedral Cove Recreation Reserve has allowed the iconic arch at the Cove to be reopened today, though the Department of Conservation urges visitors to remain vigilant in this naturally hazardous area.

    Second white kiwi brings white Christmas to Pukaha

    Date: 22 December 2011
    Source: Pukaha Mount Bruce Board
    It’s a white Christmas at Pukaha Mount Bruce with the surprise hatching of a second rare white kiwi at the national wildlife centre.

    Runaway mouse captured on Moturua Island

    Date: 22 December 2011
    It took 61 days of intensive tracking and trapping to catch a male mouse on pest-free Moturua Island, in Ipipiri (the eastern Bay of Islands).

    Wilding pine removal from the Roaring Meg

    Date: 22 December 2011
    Starting from this January people driving through the Kawarau Gorge will see one of Otago’s largest ever campaigns to eradicate wilding pines.

    Papatowai campsite opens for Christmas campers

    Date: 20 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation's Papatowai campground in the Catlins re-opened on 19 December after being closed for several years.

    Be prepared this summer: know before you go

    Date: 21 December 2011
    People visiting land managed by DOC in the Gisborne, Opotiki and Whakatane region this summer should be well prepared for the outdoors.

    Help protect our treasure islands this summer

    Date: 21 December 2011
    As the summer holiday season begins the Department of Conservation is encouraging people to 'stop and check before you go' to help protect our precious offshore islands.

    Main DOC tracks in the Wakatipu cleared for the summer holidays

    Date: 19 December 2011
    All the major DOC managed tracks in the Wakatipu basin are now open and cleared for use over the coming summer.

    Southern Abel Tasman open and Totaranui campground spaces available

    Date: 21 December 2011
    Camping spaces have opened at Totaranui campground over Christmas/New Year and the rest of summer. Abel Tasman's southern Coast Track and bays, from Marahau to Awaroa, are also open.

    Time to consider Northland’s future

    Date: 20 December 2011
    Chair Mr Harris invites visitors to Northland to let the Board know what they feel is important to the future of Northland. He also outlines the key themes Northlanders highlighted during information gathering by DOC as part of the Northland Conservation Management Strategy consultation.

    Protect newborn dolphins

    Date: 20 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation is concerned by several reports of Hector’s dolphins being harassed by water craft around Banks Peninsula.

    Roar hunting in Tasman wilderness

    Date: 16 December 2011
    Hunters can take up the chance to fly into the Tasman Wilderness Area to hunt during next autumn’s roar hunting season.

    Southern Abel Tasman coast and Totaranui campground open

    Date: 19 December 2011
    The Abel Tasman Coast Track is open from Marahau to Awaroa, and Totaranui campground is open though with boat access only for the next three months.

    Molesworth Station road to open for 25th season

    Date: 19 December 2011
    When the road through Molesworth Station opens on 28 December it will mark the 25th anniversary of the road through the Marlborough high country station being opened to the public in summer.

    Educator appointed as chairperson of Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board

    Date: 19 December 2011
    Teacher Jan Finlayson has been appointed to the chairperson role for the Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board, announced Canterbury Conservator Mike Cuddihy today.

    Takahē family welcomed at Chick Picnic

    Date: 19 December 2011
    The arrival of a new family of takahē at the Te Anau Wildlife Park attracted a large crowd to welcome the birds and enjoy an evening picnic and entertainment.

    DOC working to clear slips on Abel Tasman Coast Track

    Date: 16 December 2011
    There are some closures in the area due to heavy rain.

    DOC enforcing new freedom camping rules across the Southern Lakes

    Date: 15 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation advises that it is actively enforcing freedom camping rules on public conservation land this summer.

    Galatea kids ramp up war on stoats

    Date: 15 December 2011
    Elusive, threatened native whio in Whirinaki have been given a major helping hand thanks to Galatea School students.

    Rain affects access in some Nelson-Tasman conservation areas

    Date: 15 December 2011
    There are some closures in Nelson-Tasman conservation areas due to damage caused by heavy rain in the region.

    Dolphin etiquette for Bay of Islands boaties

    Date: 15 December 2011
    Summer is the busy time for our dolphins. Lots of people enjoy seeing the dolphins, but they are wild animals and really do need their time out from people. DOC asks that boaties in the Bay respect a few simple courtesies.

    Sofa surfing seal pup safely back at sea

    Date: 15 December 2011
    A DOC officer collected a NZ fur seal pup from the couch of a private home in Welcome Bay, Tauranga last Sunday evening, and returned it to the wild.

    Landmark partnership achieved for Fiordland's wapiti area

    Date: 15 December 2011
    A formal agreement allowing Fiordland deer hunters to manage an animal control programme in the Wapiti Area of Fiordland National Park is to be made official on Monday 19 December 2011.

    Successful breeding for Doubtful Sound dolphins

    Date: 15 December 2011
    Doubtful Sound’s resident pod of bottlenose dolphins have had the best two breeding seasons for some time.

    Project Island Song boatie bags are back

    Date: 14 December 2011
    For the third summer in a row, boaties and campers visiting the Bay of Islands will receive free Project Island Song boatie bags that contain information about the project, a free rubbish bag, floating key ring, tide timetables and, as long as supplies last, a free rat trap.

    Mainland refuse/recycling collection sites replace Bay of Islands rubbish barge this summer

    Date: 14 December 2011
    The rubbish barge, moored off Moturua Island over previous summers, will not be in operation this summer. An alternate rubbish collection system for boaties, campers and island residents is being trialled.

    Rat eats poison, monitoring continues on Mana Island

    Date: 14 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) biosecurity response plan implemented following the sighting of a rat on Mana Island in November has paid off, with confirmation that a lethal dose of poison has recently been consumed.

    DOC resumes security patrols at Moke Lake, Queenstown

    Date: 14 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation will employ a local security company to patrol the Moke Lake campground near Queenstown this summer.

    Wanaka backcountry hut gets a facelift

    Date: 14 December 2011
    New life has been breathed into the old backcountry hut at the head of the Timaru River Valley near Wanaka.

    Watchful public spot marine reserve offenders

    Date: 13 December 2011
    Three observant members of the public helped the Department of Conservation apprehend two men taking paua from Wellington’s Taputeranga Marine Reserve.

    Resting seal shot on beach

    Date: 13 December 2011
    A New Zealand fur seal (kekeno) was shot, apparently by a member of the public, while it lay resting on the beach north of the Foxton Beach Surf Club on Saturday.

    Heavyweight insect being released on Tiritiri Matangi Island

    Date: 12 December 2011
    Threatened wetapunga, New Zealand’s largest insect, have been released on Tiritiri Matangi Island to help secure the survival of this giant insect.

    Breeding time for endangered shorebirds

    Date: 09 December 2011
    As visitor numbers to Northland beaches increase with the warmer months, the Department of Conservation (DOC) asks you look out for Wildlife Refuge and Nesting Shorebird signs before you walk along the beach.

    Rare opportunity for winners to visit iconic Moutohora (Whale Island)

    Date: 12 December 2011
    Have you ever looked out to the iconic Moutohora (Whale Island) and wished you could visit? Bill Gardner of Whakatane did, and he had his wish granted when he won a trip to the island.

    Award winning student film to air on national television

    Date: 12 December 2011
    A team of students from Marlborough have taken out the Department of Conservation Big Picture Award in The Outlook for Someday sustainability film challenge.

    Siberia Hut open in time for Christmas

    Date: 12 December 2011
    The new Siberia Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park will be open in time for the holiday break.

    DOC’s picks for Christmas gifts

    Date: 09 December 2011
    Stuck for ideas on what to gift your loved ones with this silly season? Why not have yourself a merry little conservation themed Christmas?

    Takahē chick naming competition goes global

    Date: 09 December 2011
    A Department of Conservation competition has gone global with entries coming in from all over the world suggesting names for a takahē chick.

    DOC invites public comment on proposed monorail through Snowdon Forest concession

    Date: 08 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) is inviting public submissions on a proposed concession to construct a Monorail through the Snowdon Forest Conservation Area.

    Moth caterpillars attack forest near Wanaka

    Date: 09 December 2011
    The Department of Conservation has found a large area of beech forest in the Dingle Burn Valley near Wanaka that has been defoliated by mountain beech moth caterpillars.

    Volunteers deal to Waitaki pines

    Date: 07 December 2011
    Conservation groups and volunteers came together last weekend to undertake the mammoth task of removing wilding pine trees from Wairepo Kettleholes Conservation Area.

    Illegal landing on Moutohora (Whale Island)

    Date: 06 December 2011
    Two local people apprehended illegally on Moutohora (Whale Island) in the Eastern Bay of Plenty in June were prosecuted and received court diversion; requiring a donation to the Whakatane Kiwi Trust and payment of costs to the Department of Conservation.

    NZCA releases ‘Protecting New Zealand’s Rivers’ paper

    Date: 06 December 2011
    The New Zealand Conservation Authority investigated the protection of rivers in New Zealand and set out their analysis and conclusions in a paper released today.

    Hector's dolphin sighted in Gisborne

    Date: 05 December 2011
    A Hector's dolphin was seen at Midway Surf Club at 7 am Monday 5 December. The Department of Conservation is keen to hear from any member of the public who might have also sighted the dolphin.

    Survey finds kiwi in Te Anau's backyard

    Date: 02 December 2011
    An intensive listening survey for Northern Fiordland brown kiwi (Fiordland tokoeka) on the Kepler Track circuit has detected at least 35 individual kiwi living in the area.

    DOC mourns loss of long serving staff member

    Date: 01 December 2011
    The Director-General Al Morrison says all DOC staff are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of their colleagues who died while helping fight a Northland fire overnight.

    Otago Conservation Board shocked at Craig Burn fire

    Date: 01 December 2011
    Otago Conservation Board members have expressed shock at the extent of damage caused two months ago by fire in the Matatiaho Conservation Area by Lake Hawea.

    Encore Award winners enhancing Wellington region

    Date: 01 December 2011
    Source: Department of Conservation, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board.
    Dedication, passion, persistence, innovation and leadership are attributes of the nine 2011 Encore Award winners, committed to making the Wellington region a better place in which to live.

    Improved safety system for outdoor users

    Date: 01 December 2011
    DOC is joining other outdoor recreation organisations in reminding people heading into the backcountry to make sure they tell someone where they are going and when they expect to be back.

    Whitebait season ends today

    Date: 30 November 2011
    The Department of Conservation reminds the public that the whitebait season ends in the Eastern Bay of Plenty and East Coast districts today.

    Rare white snail wows

    Date: 30 November 2011
    The fascinating find of a rare white-bodied giant Powelliphanta snail has been made in Kahurangi National Park.

    Motutapu Island provides refuge for freshwater natives in decline

    Date: 29 November 2011
    Two native freshwater species with declining populations were released on pest-free Motutapu Island on 26 November 2011.

    Mark Carwardine - putting New Zealand on the wildlife tourism map

    Date: 25 November 2011
    Well-known for inspiring the sexual advances of Sirocco the kakapo, Carwardine is here to put New Zealand on the map as a wildlife destination for tourists.

    Boulder Beach closing for penguin breeding

    Date: 24 November 2011
    The Boulder Beach Conservation Area on Otago Peninsula will be closed to the public for three months from 1 December 2011 – 29 February 2012 to protect nesting yellow-eyed penguins/hōiho.

    Hokianga's Mita Harris chairs Northland Conservation Board into new era

    Date: 24 November 2011
    Northland Conservation Board’s new Chair Mita Harris is looking for strong public input into the region’s Conservation Management Strategy (CMS).

    Protection of Kawau Island’s historic Coppermine Engine House begins

    Date: 23 November 2011
    Work has begun to protect, repair and restore one of the oldest industrial buildings in New Zealand, the 157 year old Coppermine Engine House on Kawau Island.

    Lessons in chemical firefighting

    Date: 23 November 2011
    “Don’t be alarmed by sightings of ‘purple rain’ over Canterbury today,” Bruce Janes DOC Canterbury rural fire officer is warning Cantabrians.

    Rat presence confirmed on Mana Island

    Date: 22 November 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) has set out a network of new traps and monitoring systems after motion sensors detected a rat on Mana Island in the early hours of Saturday morning.

    Tasman Bay beach clean clears 7.5 tonnes of rubbish

    Date: 21 November 2011
    A big community effort has cleared 7.5 tonnes of rubbish from Tasman Bay beaches.

    Pakihi track is closed to the public

    Date: 21 November 2011
    The Pakihi track section of the Motu Trails cycleway is currently under construction and the public are reminded that the track is closed.

    Skinks being released into sanctuary

    Date: 21 November 2011
    A further 15 critically endangered Otago skinks will be released into a fenced sanctuary near Alexandra this week, boosting the population of skinks already thriving at the sanctuary.

    Fire threatens popular Far North campground

    Date: 16 November 2011
    Fire crews worked overnight to contain a fire that threatened campers and baches at Karikari Beach and Maitai Bay, in the Far North.

    World’s rarest kiwi going home

    Date: 17 November 2011
    Fifteen of the world’s rarest kiwi species, the rowi, will be returned home to Ōkārito on the South Island’s West Coast today (Thursday, 17 November).

    Stranded whales on Farewell Spit now dead

    Date: 16 November 2011
    Pilot whales stranded at the tip of Farewell Spit were unable to save themselves and are now all dead.

    Endangered Hector’s dolphin back in Wellington harbour

    Date: 15 November 2011
    A Hector’s dolphin – the world’s smallest and rarest marine dolphin – was spotted in Wellington harbour yesterday after last being seen in 2009.

    Big clean up of Tasman Bay beaches this Saturday

    Date: 15 November 2011
    Hundreds of Nelson-Tasman locals will be out collecting rubbish off beaches this Saturday (19 November) in a big community coastal clean-up.

    Rodent dogs vital part of defence for pest-free islands of eastern Bay of Islands

    Date: 14 November 2011
    Two specially trained DOC rodent dogs are working to help keep the pest-free islands of the eastern Bay of Islands clear of rats and mice.

    First takahe chick will be reared by adult takahe instead of puppets

    Date: 11 November 2011
    Mitre 10 and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are celebrating the arrival of this year’s first takahe chick at DOC's Burwood Takahe Rearing Unit late last month.

    Rare white kiwi moves into nocturnal house

    Date: 10 November 2011
    Source: Pukaha Mount Bruce Board
    Manukura, the rare white kiwi making global headlines since she hatched six months ago, today moved into the nocturnal kiwi house at her Pukaha Mount Bruce home where she will soon be able to be seen by the public daily.

    DOC invites public comment on proposed Dart Passage concession

    Date: 10 November 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) is inviting public submissions on a proposed concession to construct a tunnel between Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks.

    Tīeke released on Rangitoto and Motutapu islands hatching chicks

    Date: 10 November 2011
    Just ten weeks after being released on Rangitoto and Motutapu a threatened native bird has begun hatching chicks on both islands.

    Loss of snails announced

    Date: 10 November 2011
    A problem with a temperature controlled coolroom has resulted in the loss of a number of Powelliphantia snails at its holding facility in Hokitika.

    $1600 fine for whitebaiting offences

    Date: 10 November 2011
    A Nelson man has been fined $1600 for eight whitebaiting offences committed all at once.

    First wild kakī chick to hatch this season raises hope

    Date: 08 November 2011
    The first wild kakī/black stilt chick has emerged from its shell and raises hope after a disappointing start to the 2011 breeding season.

    Aorangi restoration driven by community

    Date: 07 November 2011
    Source: Department of Conservation, Aorangi Forest Restoration Trust, Greater Wellington Regional Council
    Community holds the key to enhancing and restoring the natural environment. This was the resounding message at the launch of the Aorangi Forest Restoration Trust on a remote ridge top in South Wairarapa on 3 November.

    Conservation icon acknowledged

    Date: 31 October 2011
    Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson paid tribute to one of New Zealand's leading conservationists during a visit to South Waikato's Waotu district on Saturday.

    Twenty five items believed to be ivory and a turtle shell seized in Auckland

    Date: 01 November 2011
    Twenty five items believed to be elephant ivory, and the shell of a Hawksbill Turtle, were seized from an Auckland address last night following the execution of a search warrant.

    Remedial work at Cathedral Cove will enable archway to be reopened

    Date: 01 November 2011
    Plans are in place for remedial works at Cathedral Cove that will enable the iconic archway to be reopened to the public.

    Getting up close and personal with local beach babes in the Far North

    Date: 01 November 2011
    A group of Far North locals have been getting up close and personal with some ‘leggy blondes’ - New Zealand dotterel - at Rarawa beach recently.

    The Hobbit filming on public conservation land

    Date: 01 November 2011
    Over the coming months, the Department of Conservation will be working with film production company 3Foot7 to enable shooting for ‘The Hobbit’ where needed on public conservation land.

    Wildlife Recovery teams performing under pressure

    Date: 28 October 2011
    Getting wildlife back to the wild is the focus of the Department of Conservation and the National Oiled Wildlife Response Team.

    Dr Don Merton immortalised in new award

    Date: 29 October 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The achievements of world-renowned conservation innovator Dr Don Merton have been immortalised in an award that will see the continuation of his pioneering spirit in the management of endangered species.

    Comment sought on Rees-Dart Track booking system

    Date: 26 October 2011
    The Department of Conservation is seeking comment on a proposal to introduce a hut booking system for the popular Rees-Dart Tramping Track.

    New possum traps enter Phase II of DOC testing

    Date: 28 October 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Phase II of the Department of Conservation’s trials of self-resetting possum traps has been launched in Northland’s Trounson Kauri Park, and in the northern Te Urewera National Park, following positive results from tests in Waikato.

    Conservation dogs at work in Bay of Islands schools

    Date: 19 October 2011
    Conservation dogs showed their skills at local Bay of Islands’ schools recently with ‘Cody’ who is trained to track and catch rodents, ‘Ruby’ a hunting dog trained to avoid kiwi, and ‘Tohu‘, trained to track and locate kiwi.

    Long term tenant revealed as pest fish – removed from Wairarapa pond

    Date: 26 October 2011
    Wairarapa landowner Mark Round alerted authorities when last year he observed “strange fish” in his pond.

    Tokoeka kiwi released on Pomona Island

    Date: 27 October 2011
    Seven critically endangered Haast tokoeka have started a new life on Pomona Island in Lake Manapouri. The release of kiwi on the island is the result of a successful partnership between the Pomona Island Charitable Trust and the Department of Conservation.

    Public should keep safe distance from leopard seal seen in Auckland

    Date: 26 October 2011
    Auckland appears to be having a rare visit from a leopard seal and the Department of Conservation is warning anyone encountering it to keep well away to ensure they stay safe.

    Beached as but free Willy now

    Date: 21 October 2011
    A massive community effort ended in group hugs and cheers on Ohope Beach east of Whakatane early this afternoon as a stranded pygmy sperm whale headed safely out to sea.

    Major upgrade of visitor facilities on Urupukapuka Island

    Date: 19 October 2011
    DOC is undertaking a major upgrade of the tracks, signage and interpretation on Urupukapuka Island. The project will bring a range of opportunities including greater protection and appreciation of the archaeological features on the island.

    Rural fire exercise turns the heat up

    Date: 15 October 2011
    The massive Canterbury and West Coast Regional Rural Fire Exercise is heating things up.

    EPA report shows controls on 1080 working well

    Date: 19 October 2011
    The Department of Conservation has welcomed the release by the Environmental Protection Authority of the latest annual report on the aerial use of the biodegradable toxin 1080.

    Queenstown fire exercise may save lives

    Date: 18 October 2011
    Queenstown residents living in high fire risk areas will benefit from an exercise being carried out in the town between 25-27 October.

    Wildlife response teams and community working together to minimise oil spill impact

    Date: 13 October 2011
    The Department of Conservation is working with the National Oiled Wildlife Response Team and the local community to minimise the impact of the Rena oil spill on local wildlife.

    Winery toasts success at the birthplace of New Zealand conservation

    Date: 12 October 2011
    Peregrine Wines recently toasted the success of their fourth conservation initiative through the Fiordland Conservation Trust and DOC with the transfer of 60 mohua back to Resolution Island, the birthplace of New Zealand conservation.

    Mountain bikers enjoy Heaphy Track

    Date: 11 October 2011
    Mountain bikers have been enthusiastic about the first trial winter-season mountain biking on the Heaphy Track with more than 1700 estimated to have ridden on it over the five-month period

    Attempts to rescue stranded sperm whale fail

    Date: 11 October 2011
    Despite a six-hour rescue attempt, Department of Conservation staff were unable to re-float a sperm whale grounded on a Far North beach.

    Public asked to step lightly on the beach

    Date: 10 October 2011
    The Department of Conservation reminds the public to step lightly on the beach in the Eastern Bay of Plenty as the NZ dotterel breeding season gets underway.

    Rugby World Cup kiwi fame

    Date: 07 October 2011
    A strapping young Northland brown kiwi has been released into his new home supported by the name Ritchie McKiwi.

    Manu huruhuru (bird pelting) workshop a great success during Conservation Week

    Date: 06 October 2011
    The manu huruhuru (native bird skinning) workshop in Kororareka/Russell provided the opportunity for people to show their natural affection for New Zealand in a practical hands-on way - this year’s Conservation Week theme.

    New kiwi chick makes history at Franz Josef

    Date: 06 October 2011
    The first Haast Tokoeka chick to hatch at the West Coast Wildlife Centre emerged from its egg at 10:30am on Sunday morning.

    1080 kiwi claims extremely misleading

    Date: 05 October 2011
    The Department of Conservation is concerned factual information about kiwi deaths in the Tongariro Forest has been inaccurately portrayed by anti-1080 campaigners.

    Public urged to respect ‘honeymooning’ dotterels

    Date: 30 September 2011
    The Department of Conservation is urging people to give dotterels a little privacy as they move from their courtship phase into family mode.

    Call to join Tasman Bay Big Beach Clean-up

    Date: 29 September 2011
    A call is going out for groups to sign up for a big community spring clean of Tasman Bay beaches being run for the second year.

    1080 operation nails kiwi killers at Ōkārito

    Date: 30 September 2011
    DOC says the recent 1080 operation at Ōkārito has decimated rat and stoat numbers in the treatment area, lowering the risk to kiwi and other forest birds of predation during the breeding season.

    Northland Conservation Board discussion topics in September 2011

    Date: 29 September 2011
    Read an overview of the topics the Northland Conservation Board discussed in September 2011.

    Kākāpō Recovery partnership extended

    Date: 28 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today welcomed the extension of the Kākāpō Recovery partnership between DOC, Rio Tinto Alcan New Zealand and Forest & Bird.

    DOC rescues endangered turtle from south Auckland beach

    Date: 26 September 2011
    A Department of Conservation (DOC) ranger has rescued an endangered olive ridley turtle from a south Auckland beach.

    Take care with rural burning

    Date: 26 September 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) urges farmers to comply with fire permit conditions and take extra care after several recent fires escaped and subsequently burnt onto public conservation land in Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes districts.

    Conservation awards celebrate Coastal Otago conservation champions

    Date: 13 September 2011
    An outstanding Orokonui Ecosanctuary volunteer, a fierce advocate for yellow-eyed penguins in the Catlins, and a business that sponsors jewelled gecko conservation are recipients of this year’s Department of Conservation Coastal Otago Conservation Awards.

    Third year of Tarawera pine operation

    Date: 23 September 2011
    A small ceremony was performed on Mt Tarawera on Monday to signal the start of the third season of wildling pine control on the mountain.

    New members for Otago Conservation Board

    Date: 23 September 2011
    Conservation Minister Hon Kate Wilkinson has announced two new appointees to the Otago Conservation Board and the reappointment of an existing Board member.

    Oceana Gold agrees to protection programme

    Date: 23 September 2011
    Agreement has been reached between the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Oceana Gold on the company’s proposed Macraes mine expansion.

    Sun provides cheaper, cleaner, quieter power for DOC on Great Barrier Island

    Date: 23 September 2011
    New solar power systems being built on Great Barrier Island will provide Department of Conservation bases with cheaper, cleaner and quieter power.

    Valuable information obtained from tagged dead New Zealand fur seal

    Date: 22 September 2011
    Information obtained from the tag of a dead New Zealand fur seal in Gisborne has assisted DOC in understanding more about the distribution and movements of seal around NZ.

    Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board appointments 2011

    Date: 21 September 2011
    Appointments to the Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board for 2011 were announced today by Department of Conservation Canterbury Conservator, Mike Cuddihy.

    No clear explanation for increase in stranded marine turtles

    Date: 20 September 2011
    Weather patterns, climate change, pollution or environment factors are suspects, but there is no definitive answer for the record number of stranded marine turtles arriving on Far North beaches in recent weeks.

    Northland Conservation Board appointments 2011

    Date: 20 September 2011
    Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointment of Mita Harris, Tracey Andrews-Smith and Judi Gilbert to the Northland Conservation Board.

    Turere Lodge offers ‘5 star’ comfort tramping

    Date: 20 September 2011
    The long awaited Turere Lodge - the latest addition to comfort tramping near Wellington in the Rimutaka Forest Park - has been officially opened.

    Waiohine bats on show in Auckland Zoo’s Te Wao Nui precinct

    Date: 14 September 2011
    Rare Waiohine short-tailed bats at the centre of a ground-breaking conservation project are among the native animals on show at the new Te Wao Nui New Zealand precinct at Auckland Zoo.

    Inspiring young conservationists

    Date: 28 September 2011
    Long time conservation supporter, Linda Campbell of Feilding, is a recipient of a 2011 Conservation Award from the Department of Conservation.

    Orca dies after stranding south of Whangaparoa Peninsula

    Date: 16 September 2011
    Department of Conservation rangers have taken a female orca calf that died after stranding near Whangaparoa peninsula to Massey University’s Albany campus to determine the cause of death.

    “Pines, pests and poo” go head-to-head in conservation awards

    Date: 16 September 2011
    Weed control won out over trapping and solid waste disposal projects at the Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board Award last night.

    Conservation Award for Te Manawa

    Date: 16 September 2011
    Te Manawa Museums Trust is receiving a Conservation Award in appreciation of the numerous conservation stories they share with the community through the exhibitions, events and education programmes delivered at Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science & History.

    Don’t let your dog be a kiwi killer

    Date: 15 September 2011
    The Department of Conservation will today launch an ambitious campaign to help save Northland brown kiwi from dogs.

    New Zealand Native Trees book launched

    Date: 15 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    New Zealand’s Native Trees, the most comprehensive book on the topic to be produced in 30 years, has been officially launched in Wellington tonight with copies to be donated to intermediate and high schools around the country for Conservation Week.

    Wellington students help save local lizards

    Date: 14 September 2011
    Two year 5 students from Queen Margaret College in Wellington have taken action to protect local skinks in an area set for a building development.

    Horowhenua wetland purchased for protection

    Date: 14 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The Lake Papaitonga Scenic Reserve in Horowhenua will be enhanced through the purchase of Preston’s wetland by the Department of Conservation.

    Project Gold launched to celebrate kōwhai

    Date: 13 September 2011
    Hundreds of kōwhai trees will be planted throughout Otago from this week in an effort to bring back one of our favourite natives.

    Trout runs arrive and show mixed signs of a recovery in the Taupo fishery

    Date: 13 September 2011
    After a downturn in the size and condition of trout in the Taupo fishery since 2007 river anglers are seeing signs that the Taupo fishery is recovering.

    Pāteke Recovery Group releases publication on pāteke recovery

    Date: 12 September 2011
    The new Pāteke Survival Guide is a resource for landowners, community groups and other parties interested in the recovery of pāteke/brown teal.

    Wellington weed swap a whopping success

    Date: 12 September 2011
    Conservation Week kicked off in Wellington at the Waitangi Park Weed Swap event on Sunday 11 September, with over 400 native plants given away in exchange for garden weeds.

    Awards celebrate Inland Otago conservation champions

    Date: 12 September 2011
    The recipients of this year’s Department of Conservation Inland Otago Conservation Awards have been announced.

    Tauranga horticulturalist wins Loder Cup

    Date: 11 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Tauranga horticulturalist Mark Dean has been awarded one of the country’s highest conservation honours, the prestigious Loder Cup for 2011.

    Minister welcomes new native species enclosure at Auckland Zoo

    Date: 10 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today welcomed the opening of the new $16 million Te Wao Nui native species enclosure at Auckland Zoo, in time for Conservation Week.

    DOC takes steps to prevent kea losses

    Date: 09 September 2011
    DOC says it will be looking at ways to further protect kea after the discovery of seven dead birds following a recent 1080 pest control operation on the West Coast.

    Volunteers work on ecological restoration of Fletcher Bay

    Date: 08 September 2011
    Twelve volunteers and Department of Conservation (DOC) staff have completed planting 3500 native plants around the Fletcher Bay Campsite.

    Regenerating forests need goat control

    Date: 08 September 2011
    The Waikato Regional Council and Department of Conservation (DOC) are undertaking goat control in the Waiwawa Catchment in the eastern ranges to avoid reinvasion. Hunting teams comprising of both DOC staff and contractors will systematically cover the area of operation from September 2011 to March 2012.

    DOC says give seals a wide berth

    Date: 07 September 2011
    Marine mammals are visiting the Coromandel Peninsula coastline more frequently.

    Department of Conservation review has local impacts

    Date: 07 September 2011
    A number of science and technical jobs have been cut from DOC's Whanganui, Taranaki and Turangi offices, and some new support roles will be consolidated in a new conservancy office in Taupo.

    Two kakapo found dead

    Date: 07 September 2011
    Source: Kakapo Recovery Programme
    Two young female kakapo have been found dead – one on Whenua Hou/Codfish Island, off Stewart Island, the other on Anchor Island in Fiordland.

    'Show your natural affection for New Zealand' Conservation Week - Bay of Islands-style

    Date: 05 September 2011
    Kiwi aversion training for dogs, games and activities for all the family, a library display, and a bird pelting workshop (for making cloaks / korowai) – just part of Conservation Week in the Bay of Islands.

    'Paradise’ enhancement in car park design

    Date: 06 September 2011
    Joni Mitchell sang of paving paradise to create a parking lot… but a new car park at the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve has enhanced the natural attributes of this slice of kiwi “paradise”.

    DOC to re-organise support systems for field staff

    Date: 06 September 2011
    The Department of Conservation is to set up new regional service centres in its Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch offices as it moves to re-organise its systems for supporting conservation staff in the field.

    Auckland man fined for fishing in Te Paepae o Aotea Marine Reserve

    Date: 02 September 2011
    Mr Scott Slater of Auckland was convicted in the Whakatane District Court for fishing within the boundaries of Te Paepae o Aotea Marine Reserve in January last year.

    Leave seals alone on beaches

    Date: 01 September 2011
    The Department of Conservation have been receiving the usual seasonal spate of phone calls from the public concerned about the welfare of seals on Eastern Bay of Plenty beaches.

    Seals can take care of themselves

    Date: 31 August 2011
    New Zealand fur seals coming ashore around Northland are generally resting, or are weaned pups learning their way around the marine world.

    Tree-planting marks reopening of Ōtukaikino wetland reserve

    Date: 01 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson will join local rugby legend Tane Norton to plant the first of 5000 native trees at a huge public planting event marking the reopening of Ötukaikino wetland reserve on Saturday 3 September.

    Tree-planting marks reopening of Ōtukaikino wetland reserve

    Date: 01 September 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson will join local rugby legend Tane Norton to plant the first of 5000 native trees at a huge public planting event marking the reopening of Ōtukaikino wetland reserve on Saturday 3 September.

    New partnership doubles efforts to save endangered whio

    Date: 31 August 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) and Genesis Energy today signed a $2.5 million business partnership that will help secure the future of New Zealand’s rare endangered whio (blue duck).

    Win an exclusive day trip for two to Moutohora (Whale Island)

    Date: 30 August 2011
    The Department of Conservation are giving you an exclusive chance to win a guided day trip for two to Moutohora (Whale Island) in celebration of Conservation Week.

    Tāwharanui Marine Reserve opened

    Date: 28 August 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson has today (August 28) officially opened the country’s newest marine reserve near Warkworth, north of Auckland.

    Mana Island takahē on the move

    Date: 29 August 2011
    Two endangered takahē, members of Mana Island's successful breeding population, said farewell to the region last week and headed north to help start a new population on Auckland's Motutapu Island.

    Motutapu and Rangitoto declared pest free

    Date: 27 August 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Motutapu and Rangitoto islands have been officially declared pest-free wildlife sanctuaries following a successful eradication programme that first started 20 years ago.

    Ngunguru Spit purchase a win for conservation

    Date: 25 August 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The Government has purchased Ngunguru Spit in Northland following years of hard work to secure the iconic coastal habitat so it can be preserved for the benefit of all New Zealanders, Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson announced today.

    DOC website voted one of the top 5 government sites

    Date: 25 August 2011
    The DOC website is a finalist in the 2011 NetGuide Web Awards.

    DOC Northland launches 'Plant Me Instead' booklet

    Date: 19 August 2011
    The Department of Conservation in Northland is launching the booklet ‘Plant Me Instead’ with a weed swap event at the Whangarei growers market on Saturday 8 October 2011.

    Velvet the Travelling Tuna Tapestry arrives in Gisborne

    Date: 22 August 2011
    "Velvet the travelling tuna tapestry" has been making her way around the far north and has arrived in Gisborne.

    Appointments to Conservation Authority

    Date: 22 August 2011
    Source: The Office of the Minister of Conservation.
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today announced eight new appointments to the New Zealand Conservation Authority.

    Encore Awards – two weeks left to apply

    Date: 19 August 2011
    Source: Department of Conservation, Greater Wellington Regional Council, and Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board
    Applications close on 5 September for the 2011 Encore Awards. They honour individuals, community groups, businesses, schools and landowners whose sustained commitment to environmental restoration, nature and conservation is making the region a better place to live.

    Rare porpoise washed up at Sailors Grave

    Date: 19 August 2011
    Sailors Grave (Te Karo) was the site of a nationally significant find of a rare spectacled porpoise.

    First stage of rat removal completed for Ulva Island

    Date: 19 August 2011
    The first of two baiting operations on Ulva Island has been completed as DOC moves to eradicate Norway rats threatening the Stewart Island wildlife sanctuary.

    Whitebaiters urged to "Check, Clean, Dry" to prevent didymo spread

    Date: 18 August 2011
    Whitebait season got underway on Monday 15th August, and whitebaiter's are being reminded to "Check, Clean, Dry" their nets and other gear between rivers to help protect our waters from the invasive algae didymo.

    Trapping possums saves forests and kiwi

    Date: 11 August 2011
    High possum fur prices have led to an increase in recreational trappers. This is great news for protection of our native forests. On the flip side, leg hold traps set on the ground in kiwi areas can catch kiwi.

    A little training can help dogs avoid kiwi

    Date: 18 August 2011
    Well trained dogs, whether hunting dog, domestic pet or specialised species dog, are helping to save kiwi on the Coromandel Peninsula.

    Kiwi chick season off to a flying start

    Date: 17 August 2011
    It looks like a bumper season for kiwi in the Whangarei Kiwi Sanctuary! The season started unusually early after a wet summer and autumn softened the ground and made feeding easy.

    Dead kea dumped at Arthur’s Pass were shot

    Date: 17 August 2011
    Preliminary autopsy results from five dead kea dumped near Arthur’s Pass have confirmed that the birds were shot.

    A message to whitebaiters: Check, clean and dry

    Date: 15 August 2011
    The Department of Conservation is reminding Hawke's Bay whitebaiters to check, clean and dry their nets and other gear when moving between waterways. This will help slow the spread of freshwater pests and potentially didymo during the whitebait season.

    Dog owner 'sickened' by his dog's slaying of a kiwi

    Date: 12 August 2011
    A Far North dog owner describes feeling ‘sickened’ when he realised the possum he had set his dog on to kill, was in fact a Northland brown kiwi.

    Whitebaiting around Christchurch

    Date: 12 August 2011
    Whitebait species are particularly vulnerable this year due to earthquake damage to known spawning grounds which may have a harmful effect on fish numbers.

    Penguin killed by dog

    Date: 11 August 2011
    A blue penguin was found dead at Sponge Bay, Gisborne around mid-day on 10 August by a local resident. The penguin had received some form of injury and the body was sent to Massey University Wildlife Healthcare Centre.

    Whitebait season starts next week

    Date: 11 August 2011
    Monday 15 August marks the start of another whitebait fishing season for areas other than the West Coast of the South Island.

    Seals need rest, not rescuing

    Date: 09 August 2011
    A report of a seal pup in Hawke's Bay biting a member of the public, who thought they were helping it, has again highlighted the need to be careful with wild animals.

    Public asked to ring in about kea deaths

    Date: 08 August 2011
    DOC is calling for information about five dead young kea discovered at Klondyke Corner near Arthur’s Pass today.

    DOC releases new data for Mix & Mash competition

    Date: 05 August 2011
    DOC backcountry hut, campsite and hunting block data has been released for Digital New Zealand's great New Zealand remix & mashup competition.

    New Zealand fur seals need space

    Date: 05 August 2011
    New Zealand fur seals are making frequent appearances along our coast, but unless a seal is at danger from being attacked by a dog, the best policy is to leave it be.

    Keep yourself, your dog and seals safe

    Date: 05 August 2011
    “Leave young seals alone to rest,” is the plea from the Department of Conservation in response to a seasonal spate of calls about “sick” seals on Wellington and Kapiti beaches to the DOC emergency hotline.

    Chiefly kiwi is a girl while boys warm new eggs

    Date: 05 August 2011
    Source: Pukaha Mount Bruce Board
    Manukura, the first white kiwi chick hatched in captivity, is a girl.

    Muesli the kiwi off to University

    Date: 03 August 2011
    A kiwi found within the Whangarei Kiwi Sanctuary this week has been sent to the specialist New Zealand Wildlife Health Centre at Massey University in Palmerston North.

    Illegal removal of trees from Donner's Bush Scenic Reserve

    Date: 02 August 2011
    The Department of Conservation is concerned at the illegal removal of trees by unknown person from Donner's Bush Scenic Reserve located on Riverside Road, 10 kilometres from the Gisborne city centre.

    Getting wet feet with Waiharara School

    Date: 02 August 2011
    Hunting for native fish and bugs was part of an action packed day for Waiharara School. Students took part in an educational freshwater investigation - the Whitebait Connection (WBC) programme.

    Opotiki whitebait offender remanded in custody

    Date: 02 August 2011
    The Department of Conservation is pleased with the signal sent to 57 year old Opotiki man, Peter Warren, who was remanded in custody after being found guilty of illegal whitebaiting and obstruction.

    No more wet feet on journey to Mt Sunday

    Date: 01 August 2011
    Contractors are currently finishing the construction of a new pedestrian swing bridge across Deep Creek, within the Mount Potts Conservation Area.

    Island sanctuaries depend on mainland community pest control

    Date: 21 July 2011
    The pest-free status of the islands of the eastern Bay of Islands (also known as Ipipiri) is being greatly enhanced by the combined work of landowners, community groups and agencies on the mainland.

    Public asked to watch out for entangled whale off Otago coast

    Date: 25 July 2011
    The Department of Conservaton is appealing to the public to look out for a southern right whale (tohora) entangled in a craypot line following a sighting of it off the Otago coast on Saturday.

    Major slip blocks Mangapurua Track

    Date: 25 July 2011
    A slip is near the iconic Bridge to Nowhere has closed the Mangapurua Track.

    Foredune planting at Smugglers Bay

    Date: 22 July 2011
    An exciting restoration project at Smugglers Bay, Bream Head Scenic Reserve, is progressing well. Recently about 300 spinifex plants were planted on a section of the beach where foredunes were absent.

    Restoration plans for Bream Bay

    Date: 21 July 2011
    The Department of Conservation is working with a local logging contractor to remove wilding pines growing on public conservation land at Bream Bay, Northland.

    Sirocco kakapo to be in Dunedin and Wellington during the Rugby World Cup

    Date: 19 July 2011
    Source: Department of Conservation, Forest & Bird and Rio Tinto Alcan
    Sirocco, the kakapo whose frisky behaviour propelled him to global stardom, will launch his career as advocate for Kakapo Recovery during the Rugby World Cup.

    Extensive trapping programme pays off for Kapiti

    Date: 19 July 2011
    An island-wide trapping system set up on Kapiti Island after the discovery of a stoat late last year has caught a second animal over the weekend.

    DOC disturbed at death of North Island weka in possum traps

    Date: 15 July 2011
    DOC is disturbed about the death of two North Island weka caught by an unknown possum trapper in the Pakihi Valley, south east of Opotiki.

    Stormy weather takes its toll on seabirds

    Date: 14 July 2011
    The storm whipping up high seas on the west coast of the North Island is having an effect on many species of seabirds, some of which have been found in an exhausted state as far inland as Hamilton.

    Project Crimson planting to honour our local rugby legends

    Date: 13 July 2011
    2011 marks a festival for rugby, what better way to celebrate than to have local rugby legends stamp their mark on NZ rugby history with a native planting event.

    Winter arrives in Fiordland National Park with vengeance

    Date: 11 July 2011
    The late arrival of snow to Fiordland this winter has not softened its blow.

    Sea birds blown in by wild weather

    Date: 12 July 2011
    Storms wreaking havoc around the lower North Island have blown sea birds inland to areas where they are not typically seen.

    Your Kauri National Park proposal feedback needed

    Date: 08 July 2011
    People with an interest in the proposal for a new Kauri National Park in Northland are being urged to get their thoughts in to DOC. The feedback period for the proposal discussion document closes on 18 July 2011 after a two-month consultation round.

    Last planting for Waewaetorea Island

    Date: 06 July 2011
    73 experienced volunteer planters from Auckland, Dargaville, Kaitaia and across the Bay of Islands planted the final 1650 native plants on Waewaetorea Island in the eastern Bay of Islands on 23 June 2011.

    DOC staff on Raoul Island safe and no damage detected after quake

    Date: 07 July 2011
    The eight DOC personnel based on Raoul Island in the Kermadec Islands say the 7.6 earthquake that struck at 7.03 am on 7 July was a significant jolt but no one was hurt and no damage has been detected.

    DOC seeks public assistance to combat theft and vandalism in the Waioeka Gorge

    Date: 06 July 2011
    Over the last year, the Department of Conservation has experienced an increase in theft and vandalism to structures in the Waioeka Gorge at campsites and on 'The Waioeka Journey - Te Awa a Tamatea.'

    Public asked to watch out for entangled whale

    Date: 06 July 2011
    The Department of Conservation has renewed its appeal to the public to look out for a humpback whale entangled in craypot line and buoy following a sighting of it off the Marlborough coast yesterday evening.

    Encore for our conservation and environmental guardians

    Date: 01 July 2011
    Source: The Department of Conservation, Wellington Hawke's Bay, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board
    Applications are now open for the Wellington region's 2011 Encore Awards, which honour individuals, community groups, businesses, schools and landowners for sustained commitment to environmental restoration, nature and conservation.

    Release in southern ocean preferred option for emperor penguin

    Date: 29 June 2011
    An advisory group made of up representatives from the Department of Conservation (DOC), Wellington Zoo, Massey University and Te Papa met today to discuss plans for the future of the emperor penguin that was found on Peka Peka beach last week, and is currently being treated at The Nest – Te Kohanga at Wellington Zoo.

    Rescued fur seal found dead at Houghton Bay, Wellington

    Date: 29 June 2011
    A young New Zealand fur seal, rescued from a piece of fishing net last week by Department of Conservation staff, was found dead on Monday at Houghton Bay.

    Foreign skink intercepted in Hawke's Bay

    Date: 29 June 2011
    A rainbow skink was found by a school girl on Emerson St. central Napier last week. The Department of Conservation (DOC) wants members of the public to inform them of any further sightings.

    Public asked to watch out for entangled whale

    Date: 28 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation is asking the public to look out for a humpback whale with its tail fluke entangled in a craypot line and buoy, possibly heading north from Banks Peninsula.

    Artists invited to go wild for residency programme

    Date: 27 June 2011
    New Zealand artists with a passion for our unique environment are invited to apply for one of three residencies on offer as part of the 2012 Wild Creations artists in residence programme.

    Naming of the conservation areas in Bream Bay

    Date: 24 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation is inviting the public to make submissions on the proposed names for the scenic reserves extending along the Marsden Point to Uretiti coastline.

    Volunteer Awareness Week 19-25 June: Profile Rosemary Tully

    Date: 22 June 2011
    It's Volunteer Awareness Week and we're celebrating retiring volunteer Rosemary Tully.

    Happy Birthday, Project Island Song - two years old

    Date: 23 June 2011
    Project Island Song celebrates its two-year milestone this month with pest-free islands at Ipipiri in the eastern Bay of Islands.

    Department of Conservation to shed jobs

    Date: 24 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation has told its staff of about 1800 today that it will be looking to shed just over 100 jobs across the organisation in coming months.

    Entangled fur seal set free at Houghton Bay, Wellington

    Date: 23 June 2011
    A New Zealand fur seal pup, found entangled in a piece of fishing net, was set free by Department of Conservation staff on Wednesday.

    The right time for southern right whales

    Date: 23 June 2011
    DOC is calling on the public to take photos and report any sightings of southern right whales along the New Zealand coastline.

    Mt Ida near Ranfurly remains as conservation land

    Date: 22 June 2011
    Land at Mt Ida near Ranfurly will remain public conservation land following agreement between the parties.

    Emperor penguin faring well

    Date: 22 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) is leaving Kapiti’s latest visitor- the young emperor penguin- to its own devices while keeping a close eye on it.

    Emperor penguin visits the Kapiti Coast

    Date: 21 June 2011
    Kapiti Coast residents have been treated to a rare visit by an emperor penguin. There is only one other recording of an emperor penguin in New Zealand, at Southland’s Oreti Beach in 1967.

    'Check, Clean, Dry' effective at stopping the spread of didymo in Fiordland

    Date: 20 June 2011
    Recent tests for didymo in 19 rivers in Fiordland National Park have all come back negative, a result that has pleased staff at Fish & Game and the Department of Conservation.

    Public meetings on Abel Tasman foreshore management proposals

    Date: 17 June 2011
    People can get information about proposals for management of the Abel Tasman foreshore at public meetings in Motueka and Richmond later this month.

    Whitebait hunt successful

    Date: 17 June 2011
    A recent survey of potential whitebait spawning sites in the Wairoa district was successful, boding well for the future.

    Have your say on managing conservation land in Otago

    Date: 17 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation is holding a series of open days throughout Otago for you to have your say about the future management of conservation land in the region.

    ‘Bird call’ wins New Zealand Idol for native birds

    Date: 20 June 2011
    'Bird call' by Shayne Burrows of New Plymouth, was voted the best in the Sounds of New Zealand 2011 competition.

    Vehicle regulations for Whirinaki Forest Park

    Date: 09 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation is pleased to announce that from today there are new vehicle regulations that come into effect for Whirinaki Forest Park.

    Rat on Rangitoto Island has eaten a lethal dose of poison

    Date: 17 June 2011
    Department of Conservation staff who’ve been hunting a rat detected on Rangitoto Island in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park are confident the rat is dead after eating a lethal dose of rat poison.

    Siberia Hut in Mt Aspiring National Park rises from the ashes

    Date: 16 June 2011
    The popular Siberia Hut in Mt Aspiring National Park destroyed by fire in March this year is to be rebuilt.

    First kokako breeding in Fiordland since extinction

    Date: 16 June 2011
    There's evidence that kokako have bred on Secretary Island in Doubtful Sound, Fiordland. This is believed to be the first time in more than 30 years that kokako have bred in the South Island.

    ‘Conservation Conversations’ expo promises a week full of freshwater fun

    Date: 14 June 2011
    ‘Conservation Conversations’ is a week-long expo of creativity where Northlanders can come together to share knowledge and experiences around freshwater and wider conservation themes.

    Blacktop Construction tops for kokako

    Date: 13 June 2011
    Kokako are set to benefit from the kind donation from Blacktop Construction towards track improvement work in the Kaharoa Conservation Area.

    Meridian and DOC share a Green Ribbon

    Date: 10 June 2011
    DOC and Meridian scooped first prize for environmentally responsible large organisation last night for their collaboration on Project River Recovery.

    Northland Conservation Board provides overview of discussion topics June 2011

    Date: 08 June 2011
    Read an overview of the topics the Northland Conservation Board discussed in June 2011.

    Government welcomes report on 1080

    Date: 08 June 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The Government has welcomed the report of the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment on the use of 1080 as the most effective tool available for pest management in New Zealand.

    Independent report by environmental watchdog endorses 1080

    Date: 08 June 2011
    The Department of Conservation endorses the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment’s firm support for the continued use of 1080 to protect New Zealand’s threatened wildlife.

    Public comments invited on management of Abel Tasman foreshore

    Date: 08 June 2011
    The public is being invited to make submissions on an Abel Tasman Foreshore Scenic Reserve Draft Management Plan.

    Cook Strait whale count on again

    Date: 07 June 2011
    Department of Conservation researchers and former whalers are to team up again this winter to count whales in Cook Strait.

    Project Restore complete

    Date: 30 May 2011
    A fine weather window saw the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Ngatiwai Trust Board complete an operation to eradicate kiore (Pacific rats) off Taranga (Hen) Island.

    Your best chance to have a say about conservation in Northland

    Date: 01 June 2011
    DOC is reviewing the Northland Conservation Management Strategy and is seeking public input on proposals for a Kauri National Park.

    Hawke's Bay's first Weed Swap a success

    Date: 01 June 2011
    They came in their hundreds, each clutching a bag of weeds to exchange for a free native plant. “Hawke’s Bay’s inaugural Weed Swaps held at Greenmeadows New World and Hastings Countdown this weekend was an unparalleled success” said organizer Gabriela Gomez Fell from the Department of Conservation.

    Events to mark Arbor Day and World Environment Day 5 June

    Date: 01 June 2011
    Arbor Day and World Environment Day will be celebrated this Queen's Birthday weekend with a native coastal planting at Tolaga Bay and 'the best things in life are free theme event organised by the Tairawhiti Environment Centre in Gisborne.

    All ears for Northland brown kiwi

    Date: 25 May 2011
    The annual national kiwi listening programme launched in Northland this week, with up to two hundred people staying up for hours each night around the region.

    Powelliphanta snails still on the menu in Hawke's Bay

    Date: 30 May 2011
    This month the Department of Conservation staff and volunteers successfully surveyed two sites for the nationally endangered Powelliphanta 'maungaharuru' a native carnivorous snail in the Maungaharuru Ranges.

    DOC grants Lake Matiri power scheme concession

    Date: 25 May 2011
    The Department of Conservation has approved granting a concession to New Zealand Energy Limited (NZEL) for parts of a hydroelectric scheme on public conservation land at Lake Matiri, near Murchison.

    Success at Dickey Flat means good times to come for campers

    Date: 20 May 2011
    “The transformation of Dickey Flat Campsite near Karangahake in the Coromandel is going really well, improving the way it’s used and perceived by the public”, says Jeff Milham, the Department of Conservation’s Visitor Assets Programme Manager in Tauranga.

    Auckland company helps conservation work on Motuihe Island

    Date: 23 May 2011
    Auckland company, Blacktop Construction, is assisting conservation work on Motuihe Island. The company has spread five truckloads of recycled bitumen chips on sections of the island’s roads.

    White kiwi chick caps bumper breeding season

    Date: 24 May 2011
    Source: Pukaha Mount Bruce
    The most successful kiwi breeding season in the history of New Zealand’s national wildlife centre has ended on an extraordinary note with the surprise hatching of a white kiwi chick.

    Count of Kaimanawa wild horse herd confirms management model

    Date: 18 May 2011
    An annual count of the Kaimanawa horses on NZ Army managed areas and adjacent private land has confirmed that herd is robust and maintaining its numbers.

    Taupo fishing improving for winter

    Date: 23 May 2011
    After a summer of tough fishing which caused some serious concern amongst anglers as to the long term health of the Taupo Fishery, it has rebounded significantly in recent months.

    $1.5m to complete trail from Cape Reinga to Bluff

    Date: 23 May 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The Department of Conservation will receive $1.5 million in Budget 2011 to help the Te Araroa Trust substantially complete the Te Araroa Trail Long Pathway from Cape Reinga to Bluff, Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson says.

    Consultation on proposed new National Park

    Date: 20 May 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson has welcomed the release today of a discussion document to kick-start public consultation on the proposal to establish a new national park in Northland’s Waipoua Forest.

    Proposed Kauri National Park treasure for all

    Date: 20 May 2011
    A public discussion document is being released today, marking the start of a two-month public consultation on the Kauri National Park proposal.

    Change to protection status of Canada geese

    Date: 19 May 2011
    From 9 June 2011 anyone will be able to hunt or kill Canada geese at any time of year without a need for a game licence or permit for control.

    New freedom camping laws announced

    Date: 15 May 2011
    Source: Office of the Acting Conservation Minister
    New laws and policy to better manage freedom camping were announced today by Environment Minister and Acting Conservation Minister Nick Smith.

    ‘Project Restore’ is underway on Taranga (Hen) Island

    Date: 17 May 2011
    DOC and the Ngatiwai Trust Board, who have joined efforts to eradicate kiore (Pacific rats) off Taranga (Hen) Island, advise that ‘Project Restore’ begins this Thursday, 19 May 2011.

    Seal survivor

    Date: 05 May 2011
    Seals look for a warm, safe place to rest during the cold winter months. During this time, you are more likely to see them coming ashore. DOC Manawatū Rangitīkei has already followed up on two injured seals reported at local beaches.

    Hunters sentenced in connection with fatal campground shooting

    Date: 17 May 2011
    Three Hamilton men were each fined $2500 today in the Taupo District Court for hunting offences committed at the time of the fatal shooting of Rosemary Ives at a DOC campground near Turangi last October.

    Boom, boom – Shake the Room! Kakapo and friends seeking help to make their mark during Music Month

    Date: 17 May 2011
    As part of New Zealand Music Month, Sirocco – the famous kakapo and official Spokesbird for conservation – is putting out the call for the musically talented to help our native birds hit the charts.

    Something fishy going on in the Manawatu

    Date: 16 May 2011
    Department of Conservation staff follow up on historic pest fish records.

    Southland Lakes confirmed free of aquatic weed lagarosiphon

    Date: 16 May 2011
    Following three days of searching by a team of four divers, the Department of Conservation is pleased to announce that Southland Lakes remain free of the 'space invader' aquatic weed known as lagarosiphon.

    Time capsule found below the old Napier Courthouse

    Date: 13 May 2011
    Recent work that strengthened the piles is the first stage of a number of improvements planned for the Category 1 historic building. This includes work on the interior linings, rebuilding the Magistrate’s Bench and other prominent courthouse furnishings and reinstating some of the old original detail to the finishing timbers.

    Damage assessment ongoing in Hawke's Bay after April storm

    Date: 12 May 2011
    Department of Conservation staff are still trying to get to some of the more remote areas to assess damage from last week's weather bomb, says Hawke’s Bay Area manager Jan Hania.

    DOC scientists join search for new species in the Kermadec Islands

    Date: 11 May 2011
    Three Department of Conservation (DOC) scientists have joined an expedition to the Kermadec Islands that expects to find new species of animal and plant life.

    Far North toilets target of bizarre souvenir hunters

    Date: 11 May 2011
    Toilet equipment is not generally seen as a desirable reminder of a day out, yet the Far North’s Raetea Reserve toilets have fallen prey to someone with strange taste in souvenirs.

    DOC hunting rat found on Rangitoto Island

    Date: 10 May 2011
    Rat tracks seen in rodent detecting tunnels have sparked a major search and trapping operation by the Department of Conservation (DOC) on Rangitoto Island in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

    Otago Conservation Awards nominations now online

    Date: 10 May 2011
    For the first time, nominations for the Department of Conservation Otago Conservation Awards can be made online. “This makes nominating someone deserving you know quicker and easier”, said Otago Conservator, Marian van der Goes.

    Germans plead guilty to hunting rare geckos

    Date: 06 May 2011
    Two German men were sentenced in Dunedin District Court today after they pleaded guilty to separate charges of hunting protected wildlife and possessing four rare jewelled geckos.

    DOC stabilises historic water wheel

    Date: 05 May 2011
    Work by the Department of Conservation to stabilise the Young Australian Water Wheel site in the Carrick Range above Cromwell means the historic relic will be around for many years to come.

    Results received for penguin deaths on East Coast beaches

    Date: 04 May 2011
    DOC has received the necropsy results from Massey University for blue penguins washed up dead on East Coast beaches last month.

    Foredune restoration trial at Smugglers Bay

    Date: 03 May 2011
    The Department of Conservation in collaboration with the Bream Head Conservation Trust and the Northland Regional Council have recently begun a foredune restoration trial at Smugglers Bay, Whangarei Heads.

    Local whitebaiter pays the penalty

    Date: 02 May 2011
    The Department of Conservaiton is pleased with the prosecution of Matiu Hohua aged 39 of Whakatane for breaching the Whitebait Fisheries Act.

    Whales wash up at Waitotara beach

    Date: 02 May 2011
    In the early hours of Saturday morning a huge whale thought to be a pygmy blue whale stranded at Waiinu beach, Waitotara on the South Taranaki Coast.

    Kiwis saving the environment rewarded by DOC

    Date: 26 April 2011
    Nominations are open for the Otago Conservation Awards, which are run by the Department of Conservation (DOC) each year to celebrate Conservation Week in September.

    Grand new home for skinks

    Date: 20 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation is moving five grand skinks from the high country near Wanaka to Peacock Springs Wildlife Park in Christchurch, in a bid to save the critically endangered species.

    DOC reaches neutral position on Port Otago project

    Date: 15 April 2011
    After reaching agreement with Port Otago over consent conditions that address the Department of Conservation’s concerns, the Department has agreed to neither support nor oppose Port Otago’s Project Next Generation.

    Opening of new mountain bike track near Wanaka

    Date: 21 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) and Bike Wanaka are pleased to announce the official opening of the Deans Bank multi use track.

    Waitutu’s kaka ‘back from the brink’ after Fiordland 1080 operation takes out predators

    Date: 28 April 2011
    An endangered population of kaka in the Waitutu Forest, Fiordland, has been boosted by a record breeding season following a pest control operation with 1080 toxin.

    Kiwi aversion training a success

    Date: 27 April 2011
    Dogs were the main players of the day at the Te Teko Rugby grounds on Easter Sunday as local hunters descended on the grounds to have their dogs run through kiwi aversion training.

    Heaphy Track winter mountain biking trial starts

    Date: 26 April 2011
    Mountain bikers can ride the Heaphy Track for five months from Sunday 1 May.

    Volunteers exceeding all expectations

    Date: 26 April 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The amount of time New Zealanders spend volunteering for conservation work is exceeding expectations, with thousands of people wanting to make a difference, says Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson.

    DOC charges follow fatal campground shooting

    Date: 20 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation has charged three men with hunting offences in relation to the fatal shooting of Rosemary Ives at a DOC campground near Turangi last October.

    Whareroa Farm opening to the public with a day of celebrations

    Date: 20 April 2011
    Walks, mountain biking, horse riding, picnicking and the chance to savour spectacular views are on offer at Whareroa Farm on the Kapiti coast. It opens to the public with a day of celebrations on Saturday 30 April.

    Gibbs Hill Track winter mountain biking to continue

    Date: 20 April 2011
    Mountain bikers can again ride Abel Tasman National Park’s Gibb’s Hill Track for five months from Sunday 1 May, having been given continued winter access to the track after a two-year trial.

    Cathedral Cove walk re-opens

    Date: 19 April 2011
    The track to Cathedral Cove is now open to the public. Contractors completed the reinstatement and construction of the final flight of steps down to the beach last week. The Cathedral Cove arch remains closed as the arch is a known rock fall risk.

    Native trees and rugby legends

    Date: 14 March 2011
    Whakaipo Bay has been chosen as one of seventeen sites New Zealand wide to host a major community planting event during the Rugby World Cup 2011.

    Kiwi Rangers return to Arthur’s Pass for Easter

    Date: 15 April 2011
    Families keen on a bit of outdoors fun this Easter are invited to come up to Arthur’s Pass National Park and become Kiwi Rangers!

    Children plant 300,000th native tree on Motuihe Island

    Date: 08 April 2011
    A restoration project on Motuihe Island reached a major milestone with primary school children planting the 300,000th native tree on the island since the project began in 2003.

    Whitebaiters found guilty

    Date: 08 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation is very pleased with the outcome following last week's prosecutions in Whakatane District Court of Travis Tane and Terrance Nathan.

    Don Merton, 1939 – 2011: internationally acclaimed conservation pioneer

    Date: 11 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation says New Zealand has lost an internationally acclaimed conservation pioneer with the death of Don Merton at the weekend.

    Decision made concerning additional lands for heli-hunting

    Date: 07 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation has made decisions on additional lands applied for by heli-hunting operators for short term permits.

    Tuhua welcomes first baby orange-fronted parakeet

    Date: 01 April 2011
    Source: Tuhua Trust Board
    The first orange-fronted parakeet / kakariki to fledge in the wild north of the Cook Strait in about 130 years has been confirmed on Tuhua (Mayor Island).

    DOC investigating report of commercial fishing in Auckland marine reserve

    Date: 05 April 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) is investigating a report that a commercial fishing boat appeared to be fishing in the Motu Manawa/Pollen Island Marine Reserve in Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour.

    Te Tapatoru a Toi farewell valued members

    Date: 06 April 2011
    Te Tapatoru a Toi (Joint Management Committee) have recently farewelled and thanked former committee members Dave Field, Anthony Olsen and Don Herdman for their valued contribution and hard work throughout their term on the committee.

    South Island robins in Milford Sound again

    Date: 05 April 2011
    Twenty four South Island robin/kakaruai have been released at the Cleddau River delta at Milford Sound.

    Wanted - whitebait fritters forever

    Date: 01 April 2011
    A survey of whitebait spawning sites is underway in the Wairoa region, in a continued effort to safeguard the fishery for future generations of whitebaiters.

    DOC opens Breast Hill Track and huts above Lake Hawea

    Date: 29 March 2011
    The Department of Conservation today announced the opening of Breast Hill Track above Lake Hawea.

    Tauira Kaitiaki Taiao – Maori Conservation Cadetship Programme 2011

    Date: 29 March 2011
    The Department of Conservation will launch its second Tauira Kaitiaki Taiao Maori Conservation Cadetship programme in Waikato this week.

    World first stoat poison will strengthen protection for native birds

    Date: 29 March 2011
    A new toxin for the control of mammalian pests, thought to be the first registered in the world for at least twenty years, has been developed in New Zealand.

    Northland Conservation Board provides overview of discussion topics March 2011

    Date: 25 March 2011
    Read an overview of the topics the Northland Conservation Board discussed in March 2011.

    DOC ‘rat’ dogs screen competitors in Rangitoto/Motutapu sports event

    Date: 26 March 2011
    Three rodent detecting dogs will screen everyone heading to Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands on Saturday March 26 for the Dual sports event in which competitors mountain bike or run across the islands on formed roads and tracks.

    Kererū being deliberately harmed

    Date: 24 March 2011
    Some kererū/wood pigeon are being deliberately injured in Otago, requiring weeks of hard work to rehabilitate them.

    Rare coastal forest to be protected under Canterbury exchange proposal

    Date: 23 March 2011
    The Director-General of Conservation says a rare block of significant native forest will be secured under a land exchange agreement proposed with the company seeking to develop Porters Ski Area.

    Shark tagging resumes in Foveaux Strait

    Date: 21 March 2011
    A combined DOC, NIWA and Auckland University research team has returned to Stewart Island / Rakiura this week in an attempt to learn more about the white shark.

    DOC dog stops rat getting to pest free island in Hauraki Gulf Marine Park

    Date: 17 March 2011
    A Department of Conservation rodent detecting dog has caught and killed a rat that was on a van about to be ferried to Motuihe Island, a pest-free island in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

    Mohua thriving in new mainland home

    Date: 21 March 2011
    The road to Milford Sound, which travels through the Eglinton Valley, is now one of the most accessible places in the country to see and hear mohua/yellowhead.

    Cape Kidnappers beach clean up yields $600 for Christchurch

    Date: 18 March 2011
    It wasn't just rubbish that Gannet Beach Adventures collected this year on its annual Cape Kidnappers Seaweek beach clean up. It also gathered the $600 profit from the day’s tractor ride and donated it to the Red Cross Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

    Seaweek Pictures and Stories Competition Winners

    Date: 17 March 2011
    The brilliant use of colour, beach material and clever use of words produced some impressive winning entries in last month's Seaweek pictures and stories competition "My connection to the sea."

    Siberia Hut burns down

    Date: 16 March 2011
    The popular Siberia Hut on the Gillespie Pass Circuit Track in Mt Aspiring National Park burnt to the ground today.

    Kaipara Harbour tidal turbine project approved

    Date: 17 March 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The Minister of Conservation has granted approval for the staged installation of up to 200 tidal turbine power generators in the Kaipara Harbour.

    Canada Geese protection status changed

    Date: 17 March 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    The protection status of Canada geese as a game bird will be changed to allow farmers, park owners and aviation managers to cull these birds themselves, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.

    2011 Pureora hunting competition roars to life again!

    Date: 17 March 2011
    The annual Pureora hunting competition is set to roar into life again with trophy stag hunting about to begin. Everyone who holds a valid DOC hunting permit for Pureora between the dates of March 21st and April 17th is automatically entered in the competition, where hunters vie for a range of prizes from our generous sponsors.

    'Project Restore' kiore eradication approved

    Date: 15 March 2011
    The ecological restoration of Taranga (Hen) Island is a step closer now that the Northland Regional Council has given approval to undertake a rat eradication project called “Project Restore”.

    Seaweek makes a big splash in the Far North

    Date: 14 March 2011
    Over 300 Far Northerners took the plunge into Seaweek 2011 via a touring roadshow that provided a glimpse into ‘the world that lies beneath the waves’.

    Fantastic new freshwater aquarium opens in Turangi

    Date: 14 March 2011
    Friday marked another momentous day at Tongariro National Trout Centre in Turangi, with the official opening of the Genesis Energy Freshwater Aquarium.

    Update from Canterbury after the February quake

    Date: 11 March 2011
    Along with the rest of Christchurch, the Department of Conservation’s Canterbury operations have been heavily affected by the tragic 22 February earthquake.

    Whio are flavour of the month

    Date: 10 March 2011
    Whio are the flavour of the month for March. And no, not literally (apparently they taste awful).

    Two men jailed for marine reserve offences

    Date: 09 March 2011
    Two Gisborne men have received prison sentences for illegally taking crayfish, kina and paua from an East Coast marine reserve.

    Lookout logging in full swing

    Date: 09 March 2011
    The logging of the old pine trees on the Lookout Track on conservation reserve near the State Highway 1 bridge Turangi is well underway.

    Aerial bait spread is the best approach for Ulva Island

    Date: 07 March 2011
    Ninety-six rats have now been caught on Ulva Island since a rat population was detected just after Christmas last year. An aerial spread of bait containing rat poison (brodifacoum) has the highest chance of succeeding.

    DOC urges public not to ignore warning signs at Cathedral Cove

    Date: 09 March 2011
    The Department of Conservation is concerned that the lack of cooperation and vandalism on the Cathedral Cove track, Coromandel Peninsula, will put visitors at risk and is urging the public to heed the warnings.

    Germans charged with gecko theft

    Date: 09 March 2011
    Two German nationals are facing wildlife and theft charges following a joint operation involving the Department of Conservation, Police, and Customs.

    New boat for conservation work in the Bay of Islands

    Date: 08 March 2011
    The Department of Conservation has proudly launched the latest addition to its fleet of working boats, the ‘Matuku’. Kaumatua Sid Kingi blessed the new boat last week at Doves Bay, wishing her and her crews safe passage in their work around the Bay of Islands.

    As easy as 123? World population of Kākāpō going up as new chicks hatch

    Date: 08 March 2011
    The first kākāpō chicks of the season have hatched with three new arrivals bringing the total population of the critically endangered parrot to 123.

    March is whio awareness month

    Date: 01 March 2011
    Source: Genesis Energy
    While the importance of protecting kiwi from extinction is well known throughout New Zealand, the fate of another iconic bird hangs in the balance.

    Didymo Dave & Iron Men help each other out

    Date: 07 March 2011
    Every year Dave Cade (aka Didymo Dave) helps the Iron Men on the tough up hill section of the bike race by banging his pot and yelling support until he is hoarse.

    A chance to help clean up Otago coast

    Date: 02 March 2011
    A rubbish-free coastline is the aim of the Dunedin Coastal Cleanup being held this Sunday, 6 March, as part of Seaweek 2011.

    Vegetarian crayfish could be coming to a beach near you

    Date: 01 March 2011
    Source: Department of Conservation and Centre for Marine Environmental & Economic Research
    As sizes of popular recreational fish increase at Wellington marine reserves we can also expect to see changes in behaviour and habitat for certain species.

    DOC looks at ‘kaka-proofing’ bait stations

    Date: 01 March 2011
    DOC pest control experts are looking at changes to DOC’s rat bait distribution systems after the death of six native parrots in a Wairarapa reserve.

    Chance to fly into wilderness to hunt

    Date: 28 February 2011
    Hunters can take up the chance for a short time this autumn to fly into the Tasman Wilderness Area in the heart of Kahurangi National Park to hunt.

    Pukawa weed swap

    Date: 26 February 2011
    The Department of Conservation with weed buster Woody Weed made a big impression in Pukawa last weekend.

    Seaweek 2011 in Otago

    Date: 23 February 2011
    Find out what's happening in Otago during Seaweek, New Zealand’s annual celebration of the sea.

    Seaweek 2011 in the Far North

    Date: 22 February 2011
    Seaweek 2011 will take the Far North on a photographic journey from oceans to icebergs with marine photographer, Dr Roger Grace. He took time out of his preparations to answer a few questions about his work and what sort of images people can expect to see.

    Our oceans in focus in the Bay of Islands

    Date: 21 February 2011
    A stunning new visual roadshow of the underwater world will be visiting the Bay of Islands during NZAEE Seaweek, February 26 – 6 March 2011.

    Whale stranding on Mason Bay Beach, Stewart Island / Rakiura

    Date: 20 February 2011
    A pod of pilot whales stranded at the southern end of Mason Bay on Stewart Island, this morning.

    Skippers school house gets a makeover

    Date: 18 February 2011
    The historic Skippers Point School in spectacular Skippers Canyon near Queenstown is getting a makeover this week.

    Otago Conservation Board seeks new members

    Date: 18 February 2011
    The Otago Conservation Board is urgently seeking nominations to fill three general Board vacancies.

    Jewelled gecko plan launch

    Date: 17 February 2011
    A guide for anyone wanting to help with jewelled gecko conservation on Otago Peninsula’s is being launched 18 February 2011.

    Free family fun day at Duvauchelle (Banks Peninsula)

    Date: 18 February 2011
    Come and discover a ‘mud-delicious watery-wonderland’ with a free family fun day at Duvauchelle showground, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury, Sunday 6 March.

    One stoat down, but trapping work continues

    Date: 16 February 2011
    DOC pest control teams have caught a stoat on Kapiti Island.

    Our oceans in focus in Northland

    Date: 14 February 2011
    A stunning new visual roadshow of the underwater world launches in Northland during NZAEE Seaweek 2011.

    DOC in Far North winning battle against ruthless ecological invader

    Date: 15 February 2011
    Slow and methodical work is winning the war against a voracious ant threatening some of New Zealand’s rarest and most unique native wildlife.

    New plans approved for Stewart Island/Rakiura

    Date: 14 February 2011
    A new conservation management strategy for Stewart Island and the first management plan for Rakiura National Park has been approved by the New Zealand Conservation Authority.

    Temporary track closure while pines logged

    Date: 14 February 2011
    The Department of Conservation would like to inform the community that the Lookout Track, which starts from the State Highway 1 Bridge Turangi, will be temporarily closed.

    Bike riding on national park track results in $900 in fines

    Date: 14 February 2011
    Mountain biking on Kahurangi National Park’s Wangapeka Track has resulted in a Wakefield man being fined $900.

    Pictures and stories competition for Seaweek

    Date: 11 February 2011
    The Department of Conservation (DOC) encourage children ages 3 to 12 years to enter the Seaweek Pictures and Stories Competition "My connection to the sea" now underway.

    Canterbury students save the kiwi

    Date: 10 February 2011
    Thanks to 40 students from Hurunui College in North Canterbury, three young great spotted kiwi / roroa will be released into the Nina valley this Saturday.

    Endangered ducks surveyed in Arthur’s Pass

    Date: 10 February 2011
    The whio/blue duck population in Arthur’s Pass National Park are being counted in a survey this week carried out by the Department.

    Prosecution for illegal hunting in Canterbury

    Date: 10 February 2011
    Thanks to the efforts of some recreational hunters, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has successfully prosecuted a commercial helicopter operator for illegally heli-hunting in a recreational hunting area (RHA).

    Offender fined for fishing in Taputeranga Marine Reserve

    Date: 10 February 2011
    A Porirua man, with previous fisheries offences, was convicted in court this week after pleading guilty to illegally taking marine life from the Taputeranga Marine Reserve off Wellington’s south coast.

    Oldest albatross: success at last?

    Date: 07 February 2011
    Taiaroa Head’s currently oldest albatross – White-blue-green (WBG), based on her colour bands – may not have the most exciting name. The 42-year-old matriarch’s life to date, however, is another story – it’s been riddled with bad luck.

    The 'F Word' comes to Northland

    Date: 07 February 2011
    Stand aside Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver and Masterchef – Northland’s own version of popularist cooking is coming to the Northland Field Days.

    Argentine ants discovered at popular Far North campground

    Date: 07 February 2011
    Department of Conservation staff in Kaitaia are in the throes of planning a major control operation after confirming the presence of highly invasive Argentine ants at Tapotupotu campground in the Far North earlier this week.

    Te Paepae o Aotea Marine Reserve prosecution

    Date: 03 February 2011
    DOC is pleased with the successful prosecution of 41 year old Computer Programmer Lance Gordon Warren of Auckland who appeared before Judge Harding in the Whakatane District Court last week.

    Your wetlands

    Date: 02 February 2011
    It is the time of the year to celebrate local wetlands with World Wetlands Day, the 2nd of February. An intergovernmental convention on conservation and wise use of wetlands was signed by at Ramsar, Iran in 1971.

    Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board additional appointment

    Date: 03 February 2011
    Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointment of Papara (Caroline) Carroll to the Wellington Hawke’s Bay Conservation Board.

    Wetlands and forests for future generations

    Date: 28 January 2011
    What better occasion then World Wetlands Day (WWD) 2 February to think about the importance of wetlands and forests. You can find out more about them by attending a screening in Gisborne of "Water Whisperers Tangaroa" and getting involved with a working bee at Sisterson Lagoon.

    Snorkellers take risks at popular Goat Island Marine Reserve.

    Date: 18 January 2011
    Unprepared snorkellers at a popular marine reserve north of Auckland are getting into difficulties in the water, with growing numbers needing rescuing.

    New policy proposed to protect biodiversity

    Date: 29 January 2011
    Source: Offices of the Minister of Conservation and the Minister for Environment
    Environment Minister Dr Nick Smith and Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson today called for public input into a proposed National Policy Statement on New Zealand’s indigenous biodiversity announced at the Bluegreens Forum in Akaroa.

    Subantarctic Islands to become marine reserves

    Date: 29 January 2011
    Source: Offices of the Minister of Conservation and the Fisheries Minister
    Three huge marine reserves totalling 435,163ha are to be established in the Subantarctic Islands, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson and Fisheries Minister Phil Heatley announced today.

    Weed control marks World Wetlands Day in Otago region

    Date: 28 January 2011
    A major weed control operation to aerially spray invasive pest plants in Otago’s largest wetlands is part of the programme the Lake Waihola Waipori Wetlands Society is undertaking for World Wetlands Day next week (February 2).

    Catlins wildlife about to star on national TV

    Date: 28 January 2011
    Department of Conservation (DOC) and TVNZ 7 have just completed shooting the latest (third) instalment of “Meet the Locals”, a series of mini-documentaries that feature some of New Zealand’s most amazing native critters – and the people passionate about saving them.

    Naming of the conservation areas in Bream Bay

    Date: 27 January 2011
    The Department of Conservation is proposing to formally name the conservation areas along the Marsden Point – Uretiti coastline, as shown on the map.

    Kākāpō photo snaps up international award

    Date: 27 January 2011
    A stunning photo of a kākāpō, taken by a DOC ranger, has picked up first prize in an international competition to photograph endangered birds.

    Forces against small group of stranded whales in Far North

    Date: 21 January 2011
    Rescue was not possible for ten pilot whales found stranded this morning in the Parengarenga harbour near the top of New Zealand.

    DOC goes online to seek public opinion

    Date: 20 January 2011
    Residents and visitors in Otago and Southland have the chance over the next few weeks to have their say about how DOC manages conservation land in the area using an online mapping tool.

    Seaweek 2011 set on a strong course for Northland

    Date: 19 January 2011
    Seaweek 2011 in the Northland region will feature a roadshow from photographer Dr Roger Grace, education workshops based on the popular End of the Line movie, a free community snorkel day and a participatory workshop for schools.

    Head in the clouds for young Whangarei kiwi

    Date: 18 January 2011
    A young Riponui kiwi found in December with a serious neck injury flies back to Whangarei tomorrow (19 January), with the help of airline wings.

    The Far North of New Zealand to host international milestone in wetland protection

    Date: 18 January 2011
    New Zealand will join 160 other countries, some as far flung as Botswana, China and Iran in marking the occasion, with a dawn celebration on the shores of Lake Ngatu in the Far North.

    Cape Reinga grey-faced petrels buck the weather trend

    Date: 17 January 2011
    Despite La Nina weather patterns creating a tough breeding season for seabirds nationally, New Zealand’s most northern population of grey-faced petrels are beating the odds.

    Hunting permits now online

    Date: 13 January 2011
    Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
    Hunters can now go online at any time from any computer and apply for a hunting permit on conservation land anywhere in the country, says Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson.

    Kākāpō males ‘boom’ on as legendary bird dies

    Date: 13 January 2011
    A legendary kākāpō which played a vital role in the recovery of the species has been found dead.

    Nelson Lakes kiwi chicks

    Date: 12 January 2011
    A recently-hatched kiwi chick found in Nelson Lakes National Park just before Christmas has sadly been discovered dead.

    Rodents invade ‘rat-free’ Ulva Island

    Date: 10 January 2011
    Twelve rats have been caught on 'rat free' Ulva Island in the last two weeks.

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